Use a colored glass bottle or something elase that has a colored tint to it.You can root these easily in just water,but I'll recommend using 'Superthrive'...just a few drops in the water will speed up rooting.Change the water each week for best results.Keep it in a semi shaded spot and rotate it 1/4 turn every week.

This and similar Perillas can be rooted in moist potting mix covered by a clear plastic bag, just about as easily as Coleus cuttings.

Same as coleus: Clip 4-6" of growth, remove the bottom leaves, and plop it in a cup of water.

Omni- do you really have that hard a time with coleus or perilla?